Where to Find Help
It would be nice if diabetes support groups for all ages were as ubiquitous as, say, Dunkin' Donuts or Waffle Houses, but alas, they are not. Finding a group at all can be a challenge. Finding one that fits your child's needs perfectly can be even more difficult. But with creativity, footwork, and a bit of luck, you can make it happen.
Through Your Health-Care Provider
If only every pediatric endocrinology program came with built-in support groups; unfortunately, this is not always the case. Your first step in looking for a group should be talking with your medical team, most likely with the social worker. Oftentimes, even if programs don't have support groups, they do have special seasonal events like Halloween parties or holiday events. Sometimes, tapping into these can be a great first step toward finding good support groups. In fact, if you have older children, suggesting they volunteer for events like this geared at smaller children can be a great way to open the door to some supportive relationships.
Essential
One-on-one support can be great for kids, too. Ask your medical team if they would consider “matching” your child and family with another one in your area, so you can find a peer with the same background for your child.
Your team should also know which groups offer support for kids. Remember, it does not have to be a group of patients all from the same center. Kids with diabetes are kids with diabetes, and they can bond no matter where they are cared for. Some parents of older kids report that having their child serve as a “role model” to a younger child helped their teen become more outgoing about good diabetes care. And conversely, caregivers of little ones say they love having a “big diabetes friend” to look up to. Your medical team might be able to help you make such relationships happen.
Through Organizations
Many organizations, both local and nationally based, have family and child support programs. The Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation has more than eighty chapters across the country. Although some rural families may not find one near them, most people who live close to cities or in well-populated suburbs can find help.
Essential
The JDRF's Bag of Hope program is a great way for your child to get her first taste of support. A local family comes to your home with a her first taste of support. A local family comes to your home with a bag of goodies, including a teddy bear with diabetes. Go to
The American Diabetes Association holds many educational forums and special events throughout the year. You may be able to find good spots for your children to meet other children at these events.
The Children with Diabetes Foundation hosts the annual Friends for Life Conference each July in Orlando, as well as regional conferences across the country all year long. Some local hospitals and groups offer programs for families as well. Finding them could be as simple as asking your school nurse, who should be up-to-date on such programs.
